What is a key characteristic of intellectual disability?

What is a key characteristic of intellectual disability?

• A. Above average cognitive abilities
• B. Limited mental ability and difficulties adapting to life demands
• C. Normal social interactions
• D. Heightened creativity and problem-solving

Answer: (B)

A key characteristic of intellectual disability is limited mental ability and difficulties in adapting to everyday life demands. This condition is defined primarily by an individual's cognitive functioning that is significantly below average, typically represented by an IQ score below 70. Furthermore, it encompasses challenges with practical skills, such as communication, self-care, and social interactions, which affect the person's ability to live independently or cope with daily tasks. The focus on adaptation underlines the functional aspect of the disability, highlighting that it is not just about cognitive scores but also about how individuals cope with the challenges of life. This characteristic sets intellectual disability apart from other conditions that might involve higher cognitive abilities or normal social functioning but do not necessarily impact daily living skills or the capacity to meet adaptive challenges.

A key characteristic of intellectual disability is limited mental ability and difficulties in adapting to everyday life demands. This condition is defined primarily by an individual's cognitive functioning that is significantly below average, typically represented by an IQ score below 70. Furthermore, it encompasses challenges with practical skills, such as communication, self-care, and social interactions, which affect the person's ability to live independently or cope with daily tasks.

The focus on adaptation underlines the functional aspect of the disability, highlighting that it is not just about cognitive scores but also about how individuals cope with the challenges of life. This characteristic sets intellectual disability apart from other conditions that might involve higher cognitive abilities or normal social functioning but do not necessarily impact daily living skills or the capacity to meet adaptive challenges.